Deadline approaches for input on Northern QLD's fate

QUEENSLANDERS living north of the Tropic of Capricorn have only one more week to send their thoughts on economic development of the north to the Abbott Government.

A draft version of the Northern Australia white paper was released earlier this week for consultation, before it becomes official later this year.

Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said issues across all industries in the north were up for discussion, as part of the government's "vision" for development.

The paper is examining the potential to boost the north's economy through mining, agriculture, tourism, scientific research and health.

It is currently in a draft "green paper" form and with the public comment period ending next Friday August 8, it will then go back to government before it is set as a white paper - the final stage before it becomes official policy.

Mr Truss said the public submissions stage was an "important step" to create a new "policy blueprint for the development of the north to 2030.